The hearing will focus on the challenges and opportunities experienced by the more than 5 million members of Europe’s Black population amidst reported increase in hate crimes and discrimination, anti-immigration and national identity debates, and growing security concerns. Additionally, the hearing will also examine the impact of anti-discrimination measures as well as diversity initiatives aimed at ensuring and protecting equal rights for a population many do not know exists.

Invited Witnesses include:

Mr. Boris Kodjoe, Afro-German Actor

Mr. Joe Frans, Vice Chair, United Nations Working Group on People of African Descent; former Swedish Parliamentarian

Dr. Clarence Lusane, International Race Politics Author, American University

WHAT: U.S. Helsinki Commission Hearing on the State of (In)visible Black Europe: Race, Rights & Politics

WHEN: Tuesday, April 29 at 10:00 a.m.

WHERE: B-318 Rayburn House Office Building

The Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe, also known as the Helsinki Commission, is a U.S. Government agency that monitors progress in the implementation of the provisions of the 1975 Helsinki Accords. The Commission consists of nine members from the United States Senate, nine from the House of Representatives, and one member each from the Departments of State, Defense and Commerce.